5 reasons Clemson will defeat Alabama in national championship

Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) prepares to practice at Scottsdale Community College in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Saturday. Gerry Melendezgmelendez@thestate.com

Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) prepares to practice at Scottsdale Community College in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Saturday. Gerry Melendezgmelendez@thestate.com

1. Deshaun Watson

The Tigers have the best quarterback in the country. He has yet to lose when starting and finishing a game. Watson has shined on the big stage numerous times in his first two years, and is more than capable of doing it one more time.

2. Clemson’s offense

If anything gives the Alabama defense trouble, it’s a spread offense. Alabama has five losses in the past three years, all against spread teams. The Tide’s one loss this season was to Ole Miss, which uses a spread offense.

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3. Secondary play

Mackensie Alexander is as good as anybody in the country at cornerback and Cordrea Tankersley, Jayron Kearse and T.J. Greene make up quite a supporting cast. The Tigers rank in the top 10 in the country in passing yards allowed.

4. Brent Venables

Clemson’s defensive coordinator is one of the best in the nation. He put together a plan to hold Oklahoma, the hottest offense in the country, to 17 points in the Orange Bowl. He’ll have another solid game plan to slow down Alabama.

5. Confidence

Unlike some teams which face Alabama, Clemson won’t be intimidated. Watson is as cool and confident as they come and the Tigers’ defense is full of guys who are good and don’t mind letting you know.